Abstract: During Late Antiquity, there was much debate over re-baptism. For those who wished to join their communities, many heretical movements, including the Donatists and Novatians, required re-baptism. The orthodox view of baptism as a one-time sacrament conferring permanent membership in the church was challenged by this position. Christian identity and the relationship between Christian groups were significantly affected by the controversy over re-baptism. According to orthodoxy, baptism is a one-time sacrament that reinforces the unity of the church and the apostolic succession. The heretical view, on the other hand, emphasized the exclusivity of their respective communities and their rejection of the broader Christian tradition. As part of this topic, we will examine the historical, theological, and social dimensions of the controversy over re-baptism, including the beliefs and practices of the heretical groups, orthodox leaders, and communities, and the broader implications of these debates for Christian identity and community during late Antiquity.

Keywords:  Rebaptism, Baptism, Late Antiquity, Heresies